To:  NCMC Campus Community
From:  David Roland Finley, Ph.D., president

COVID-19 infection rates have remained elevated in the Tip of the Mitt during the first month of 2022.  See http://nwhealth.org/covid19dash2.html  (See in particular the graph in the bottom right-hand corner of the second table of information.) 

Fortunately, the number of infections, due primarily to the less virulent Omicron variant, appears to be exhibiting a downward trend.  While this trend is encouraging, it is important to remain diligent.  Thus, North Central Michigan College will maintain an indoor mask requirement through Monday, February 28, 2022, out of an abundance of caution.

As previously announced, North Central will continue to require facial coverings in all indoor settings regardless of individuals’ vaccination status, with the exception of North Central employees working in private offices, for the remainder of February. 

Please see the following table which lists the number of COVID-positive individuals in the college community by week for the entire month of January.  We’re closely monitoring these values, along with external parameters, to follow a safe path forward as the pandemic continues.

COVID-19 Case Counts
Week of: Student Total: Employee Total:
January 3 1 8
January 10 15 2
January 17 9 1
January 24 10 1
January 31 3 0
     
TOTAL 47 14


I am heartened that COVID-positive numbers have remained in the single digits per week for employees during January, and they too show a declining trend.   Student infections appear to have peaked at less than 20 per week, and this infection rate is also trending downward.

Thanks to all for your good efforts in masking, social distancing, practicing good hygiene, and staying home when symptomatic.  Your actions are helping all at the college during this challenging time.